'Shocks' out for GMIT

First-time Fitzgibbon Cup semi-finalists GMIT have been rocked with the news that top scorer Andrew 'Shocks' O’Shaughnessy will miss tomorrows penultimate round game against reigning champions Limerick IT, because of a broken toe.

O’Shaughnessy, who has scored 2-22 in GMIT’s three games to date, had an opportunity to surpass CIT’s Ryan Clifford on the top scoring chart, after the Cork U-21 bowed out of the competition at the semi-final stage.

However current All-Star O’Shaughnessy’s dreams of lining out in a Fitzgibbon Cup semi-final, were dented last Tuesday when the Kilmallock native broke his toe while training with the Limerick Senior squad.

He subsequently went for an X-ray this morning, because of the severe pain, which revealed a broken toe.

GMIT Selector Michael Geoghegan concedes that the loss of O’Shaughnessy is a major blow.

"It's a big blow for us to lose Andrew so close to the finals weekend," he said.

"He has been a truly influential player for us so far this year and to lose a player of his calibre is certainly a blow.

"But having said that it's our first Fitzgibbon Cup semi-final and we have to go out with a strong mentality. There is a great team spirit in this side and great character. The lads have performed well to date in the competition and hopefully they can produce this against Limerick IT."

It’s a double blow for GMIT, who have also lost the influential Conor Kavanagh who scored 1-2 last day out in his sides victory over Cork IT.

Kavanagh who won an All-Ireland U-21 medal last year with Galway is out of action because of a broken jaw.

Geoghegan added: "It’s a big ask without two or our most influential players when you up against a side of LIT's ability. All we can do is out best"

Meanwhile, it will be an interesting day for Tipperary brothers Donagh and Shane Maher who both be in action for this semi-final.

The Burgess pair, both of whom have Munster underage medals, will line out on opposing sides - Donagh for GMIT, while Shane will pull on the Limerick IT jersey.